Many medications have the potential to affect the liver, although serious liver damage is rare, according to Merck Manuals Online Medical Library. Symptoms of liver damage include loss of appetite, fatigue, nausea, vomiting and weakness. Other possible symptoms include yellow skin or eyes, dark urine, abdominal pain, itching, white or light-colored stools, diarrhea and headache. Signs of liver damage should be reported immediately to a medical professional, due to risks for liver failure and death.
Acetaminophen
Acetaminophen is found in many medications, including Tylenol, Percocet, Anacin-3 and many cold and flu preparations. If taken in a dose larger than recommended, it can cause liver damage, liver failure and even death. Taking acetaminophen along with alcohol or by those with liver disease increases the risk, even when used as directed. Signs of liver damage may not occur right away or may be mistaken for the flu, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration states. It can progress into liver failure and death within several days. If an overdose of acetaminophen is suspected, emergency medical treatment is required.
Isoniazid
Isoniazid is a medication commonly used to treat tuberculosis. It occasionally causes significant liver damage that is sometimes fatal. The risk of liver damage from isoniazid increases with age and occurs in more than 2 percent of patients over age 50, according to Sandoz Inc., a manufacturer of the drug. Daily consumption of alcohol increases the risk. Patients should be monitored monthly for signs of liver damage, advises Sandoz.
Orlistat
Orlistat, a weight-loss medication known as the brand name drugs Xenical and Alli, has the potential to cause severe liver damage, warns the FDA. Although this adverse effect is rare, it must be included on the drug's labels. The FDA advises orlistat users to stop taking the drug and notify a medical professional immediately if signs of liver damage such as dark urine, itching or yellow eyes or skin develop.
Fluvastatin
Fluvastatin, also known as the brand name medication Lescol, is classified as a statin, which is a group of medications used to lower cholesterol. Liver dysfunction is a possible adverse effect. The drug's manufacturer, Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corp., advises physicians to monitor liver function with a blood test before treatment is started, after 12 weeks and after dose increases. Use of fluvastatin is contraindicated in patients with liver disease or heavy alcohol use. All statin drugs carry a small risk of liver damage.
References
- Merck Manuals Online Medical Library: Drugs That Cause Liver Injury
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration: Acetaminophen and Liver Injury: Questions and Answers for Consumers
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration: Questions and Answers: Orlistat and Severe Liver Injury
- Sandoz Inc.: Isoniazid
- Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corp.: Fluvastatin
